1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Suzuki SX4
To start off, 2008 Suzuki SX4 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Suzuki SX4 (144 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Suzuki SX4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Suzuki SX4 weights approximately 1002 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Caterham 7 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Suzuki SX4, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Suzuki SX4 (184 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Suzuki SX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2008 Suzuki SX4 | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | 7 | SX4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 42 L |
